It was a festive evening at the Train Station as members of the Harriston and District Horticultural society met for a potluck supper, installation of officers and awards presentations on Nov. 22.
Reports given by committee chairs indicated the group had a very successful year in all regards. The Garden of the Month initiative, which was started this year to celebrate the society’s 65th anniversary, proved to be very popular and plans are under way to expand the program next year.
District 7 director Jane McDonald installed officers for the coming year. Jean Anderson received the President’s Pin from out going president Sue Bridge.
Alice Douglas and Willa Wick presented the flower and vegetable show awards. The Rhoda Cameron award for best design in the spring show was won by Dorelene Anderson.
Mary Anne Connell won both the Mildred Newman award for best design in the August show and the most points in all shows, while Linda Campbell got the Silver Trowel for second most points in all shows. Alice Douglas won for most points in the vegetable categories.
Sue Bridge, as co-chair of the 2016 IPM Landscaping Committee, presented the society’s treasurer Joanna Steckle with a cheque for $900. The evening ended with the presentation of three very special awards. Don Matthews presented Life Memberships to Dorelene and Doug Anderson.
Dorelene has served the society in many capacities, as well as being a district director. By her side at most events is her husband Doug, who has supported the society with his many skills, particularly carpentry. Doug was instrumental at the society’s recent workshop on making birch easels. A Service Award was presented to society secretary Willa Wick.
“Willa is the epitome of the volunteer everyone wants in their club. She has taken on many roles to promote our club, as well as the other organizations she belongs to,” stated Bridge.
The society’s next event will be a soup and sandwich luncheon from 11:30 am to 1pm on Jan. 18 at the Harriston United Church.
